Premier photography locations for capturing the essence of Nemuro

Photographing Nemuro’s ever-changing natural beauty

Takao Katayama moved to Nemuro in September 2023 as a Local Vitalization Cooperator (a program aimed at revitalizing regional areas). He was drawn to the region for its unique natural environment. “Although I was born in Asahikawa and have lived in Hokkaido my whole life, the vegetation and ecosystems here are truly distinct to other regions. The moment you arrive in Nemuro, the landscape shifts dramatically—it’s incredibly captivating.” Leveraging his photography skills, a hobby he picked up in 2019, he captures Nemuro’s landscapes and wildlife through photography and film and actively shares the region’s charm.

Originally an outdoor enthusiast, Mr. Katayama took up photography to share the wonder of his travels. Observing nature through his lens, he was repeatedly captivated by the beauty before him. He explains, “Even though I had visited Nemuro countless times, there were so many vistas I only discovered after moving here. As I watched the scenes before me to carefully line up my shots, I realized that it’s in a constant state of transition. Each day promises a new discovery, and I’m constantly being moved by what lies before me—it’s a huge source of joy.”

Nemuro’s unique natural terrain also provides composition opportunities that are impossible to find elsewhere. “The dramatic elevation of the cliffs and hills allows for unique artistic expressions and perspectives. It’s also an ideal place for sunrise photography—as Japan’s easternmost point, the sun rises early over unobstructed coastlines and grasslands, creating stunning scenes.” One stunning work features a herd of deer silhouetted against a flaming red sunrise. “I captured this with the feeling of waking up alongside the wildlife,” he says. “It’s one of my favorites because it’s filled with Nemuro’s true essence.”

While engaging with nature, Mr. Katayama has made new discoveries. “Observing Nemuro’s rich ecosystem up close, I can truly feel the cycle of life,” he shares. “Within this peaceful flow of time, the ability to encounter such rare moments like being in the presence of migratory birds that visit each season or the diverse creatures that inhabit the sea is a profound draw.” Through his lens, he witnesses the very breath of the wildlife and the struggle that is life. It’s here that he perceives nature that’s not merely beautiful, but raw and unfiltered.

Even animals that are found in other regions reveal a different side unique to this natural environment, creating the quintessential Nemuro scene. Mr. Katayama’s photography serves as a window into these moments.

Spot 1. Shunkunitai

Located at the base of the Nemuro Peninsula, Shunkunitai is a location where diverse natural environments converge into a single landscape. Here, you can encounter a variety of life—wild birds soaring overhead, Ezo red foxes making sudden appearances, and vibrant clusters of rugosa roses. This untouched wilderness offers fleeting glimpses of beauty that exist only for a moment. Boardwalks are available for you to explore the area slowly, while keeping your eyes peeled for what lays ahead.

【Mr. Katayama’s key highlight】

“While Shunkunitai is a well-known location, it takes on a completely new look depending on the hour and the season. This photo of the Milky Way shows the stars reflected perfectly on the still water at night—a side of the landscape rarely seen. Knowing that such a view is a once-in-a-lifetime encounter makes it feel incredibly precious.”

Spot 2. Lake Onneto

Named after the Ainu word for “large marsh,” Lake Onneto is a brackish lake surrounded by Ezo spruce forests and connected to Nemuro Bay. While the view from the Onneto Ohashi Bridge captures the sheer scale of the terrain, the sight of the bridge itself reflected on the water’s surface is equally stunning. The lake shows a whole new face with every passing hour and season, and parking on the bridge side makes it easy to stop and search for the perfect viewpoint.

【Mr. Katayama’s key highlight】

“I managed to capture a classic Hokkaido scene here featuring a red-crowned crane and drift ice. While red-crowned cranes can be found elsewhere, it’s rare to see them alongside drift ice. Because the ice had floated into the bay, there were no waves to disturb the scene, allowing me to take a truly magical photograph.”

Spot 3. Cape Ochiishi

Jutting out into the Pacific Ocean, the long, narrow Cape Ochiishi offers striking scenes of dynamic, crashing waves and vast stretches of surrounding forest. Sunbeams filtering through the canopy illuminate the moss and ferns below, creating a magical atmosphere. From spring to summer, you can also admire wild flowers, including the Rhododendron lapponicum (a designated Natural Monument) and delicate white Japanese swamp lanterns.

【Mr. Katayama’s key highlight】

“I took this shot on a forest trail near the Nemuro Footpaths. The silence there is absolute, with sound being absorbed and the trees blocking out the wind entirely. It felt like stepping into a storybook world. With no distractions, you can truly face nature head-on, making you want to stay for hours on end.”